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What is iOS?

Here’s literally everything you need to know about iOS, including its history, how it works, how it’s changed, and where it’s going…

The Best iPhones To Buy Right Now
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The Ultimate Guide To Apple iOS: History, Features & More…

iOS 17: The Latest Build Right Now

iOS 17 is Apple’s latest version of its mobile operating system, and it’s packed with new features.

Apple focused on making your phone even more personal with features like Contact Posters, which let you customize how your info appears when you call someone.

StandBy mode turns your charging phone into a smart display with widgets, and the Messages app has become even smarter with better search and safety options.

Learn More: iOS 17 Updated Detailed: All The Best Features

The Birth & Evolution of iOS

iOS powers your iPhone, and it’s been around since 2007 when the first iPhone launched.

Back then, it was all about simplicity and creating a great user experience. Apple nailed that from the start, but they didn’t stop there.

Over the years, iOS has continued to evolve, bringing in game-changing features like the App Store, Face ID, and more recently, privacy features like App Tracking Transparency.

Today, iOS isn’t just about iPhones. It powers iPads, the iPod Touch (RIP), and a huge part of the Apple ecosystem.

More than a billion devices worldwide run on iOS, so you’re definitely not alone in this world.

    LEARN MORE: Will Your iPhone Get iOS 18 Update?

    Major iOS Versions and Their Features

    • iOS 17 (2023-Present): iOS 17 builds on iOS 16’s strong foundation, introducing cool new features like Contact Posters, better predictive text, and a new StandBy mode. The Messages app got some love too, with enhanced search and smarter filters.
    • iOS 13 to iOS 16 (2019-2023): These versions brought massive changes to the iPhone experience. From iOS 13’s Dark Mode to iOS 16’s customizable lock screens and enhanced Focus modes, Apple kept raising the bar on personalization and privacy.
    • iOS 7 to iOS 12 (2013-2018): iOS 7 gave iOS a fresh, flat look and introduced features like Control Center and AirDrop. Over the years, we saw more advanced features like Face ID, ARKit for augmented reality, and major improvements to Siri.
    • iOS 1 to iOS 6 (2007-2012): The early days of iOS were all about building the core experience. Apple gave us the App Store in iOS 2, added multitasking and folders in later updates, and introduced Siri in iOS 5.
    LEARN MORE: How Long Apple Supports iPhone

    Different Strokes For Different Folks

    Customization in iOS

    While iOS might have started off as a more “closed” system compared to Android, Apple has loosened things up over the years, allowing for more personalization without sacrificing the clean and consistent user experience that iPhones are known for.

    Widgets

    Launchers, such as Nova Launcher or Microsoft Launcher, allow users to completely overhaul their home screen layout, animations, and app organization

    Beginner Friendly / Easy To Use

    Shortcut Automations

    For advanced users, custom ROMs like LineageOS and Pixel Experience allow for deeper customization, including features not available in stock Android. These ROMs replace the original operating system and provide a completely new experience.

    Advanced

    App Library

    Android’s widget support enables users to place interactive elements, like weather updates or calendars, directly on their home screens for quick access

    Beginner Friendly / Easy To Use

    Focus Mode

    With Android, you can easily change your phone’s entire look by applying custom icon packs and themes.

    Beginner Friendly / Easy To Use

    Manufacturer Customizations

    Unlike Android, where manufacturers put their own spin on the OS with custom skins, iOS is all Apple, all the time. And that’s a good thing if you like consistency. Apple makes sure that iOS works seamlessly across all of its devices, whether it’s your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch.

    Apple’s Ecosystem

    This is where iOS really shines. Your iPhone isn’t just a phone—it’s a central hub that links up with your Apple Watch, MacBook, iPad, and even your Apple TV.

    Features like Handoff, AirDrop, and Universal Control make it easy to switch between devices without missing a beat. It’s all about creating a seamless experience across all your Apple gadgets.

    Operating System Wars

    Android

    Developed by Google, Android powers the majority of smartphones, including devices from Samsung, Xiaomi, and OnePlus.

    iOS

    Only available on Apple’s iPhone, iOS is known for its smooth integration with Apple’s ecosystem—think iCloud, Apple Watch, and AirPods.

    Other Operating Systems

    While Android and iOS dominate, HarmonyOS from Huawei is trying to carve out its own niche, particularly in markets where Google services aren’t as accessible. And then there’s privacy focussed ones like GrapheneOS.

    The iOS Ecosystem

    The iOS ecosystem goes far beyond your iPhone. Apple has built a tightly integrated system where everything works together like magic.

    • iPads: iPads run on iPadOS, which is basically a big-screen version of iOS with some extra multitasking tricks. Whether you’re using it for work, play, or creativity, the iPad offers a lot of versatility, especially when paired with the Apple Pencil or Magic Keyboard.
    • Apple Watch: Your Apple Watch runs on watchOS, which is built on top of iOS. It’s your health tracker, notification center, and even your wallet, all strapped to your wrist. The Apple Watch is a huge part of Apple’s push into health and fitness, with features like ECG monitoring and fall detection.
    • Apple TV: tvOS powers Apple TV, bringing streaming apps, games, and more into your living room. With Siri built in, and HomeKit controls, it’s more than just a media player—it’s a smart home hub too.
    • HomePod and HomePod Mini: These smart speakers use a version of iOS to power Siri and Apple Music. They integrate perfectly with all your Apple devices, so you can control your smart home, listen to music, or get answers to your questions without lifting a finger.
    • Automotive Integration: Apple’s CarPlay brings your iPhone’s apps to your car’s dashboard, so you can stay connected on the road without being distracted. It’s perfect for navigation, music, and hands-free calling.

    The App Store and iOS Apps

    The App Store changed the game when it launched in 2008, and it’s still a central part of the iOS experience. Apple has a pretty strict review process, which helps ensure that apps meet high standards for security, performance, and usability.

    • App Quality: Because Apple keeps a close eye on what goes into the App Store, iOS apps tend to be more polished and secure. Plus, developers often prioritize iOS because users are more likely to spend money on apps and in-app purchases.
    • Monetization: If you’re a developer, the App Store is an appealing place to launch your app. With iOS users willing to spend on quality apps, and monetization options like subscriptions and in-app purchases, it’s a lucrative platform.
    • Privacy Protections: Apple has put privacy front and center in iOS. App Tracking Transparency lets you decide how apps track your data, and features like on-device machine learning mean your personal info stays on your device, not in the cloud.

    Integration with Apple Services

    One of the big advantages of iOS is how well it integrates with Apple’s own services, making your life easier across the board.

    • iCloud: iCloud is the backbone of Apple’s ecosystem. It keeps your photos, files, and settings synced across all your devices, so you never have to worry about losing anything. It’s like having your own personal cloud.
    • Apple Music, Apple TV+, and Apple Arcade: Whether you’re listening to music, watching TV, or playing games, Apple’s entertainment services are deeply integrated with iOS. Everything is just a tap away, and it all syncs perfectly across your devices.
    • Apple Pay: Apple Pay is a game-changer for contactless payments. You can pay with your iPhone or Apple Watch, and it works online too. It’s fast, secure, and super convenient.
    • Health and Fitness: If you’re into health and fitness, iOS has you covered. The Health app pulls in data from your Apple Watch and other devices, while Apple Fitness+ offers workout routines that integrate seamlessly with your watch and iPhone.

    Apple’s Commitment to Sustainability

    Apple is serious about sustainability, and you can see that in its iOS devices. The company uses recycled materials, and it’s committed to making its entire supply chain carbon neutral by 2030. Plus, with regular software updates, iPhones last longer, reducing e-waste.

    Apple’s Trade-In program also makes it easy to recycle your old devices. You can get credit towards your next purchase or send your device in to be refurbished or responsibly recycled.

    Here are some of the top picks for 2024:

    These models stand out for their performance, camera quality, and overall user experience.

    The Future of iOS

    iphone 15 sizes

    Looking ahead, iOS is only going to get smarter and more intuitive. Here are a few trends to keep an eye on:

    AI and Machine Learning

    AI is already playing a big role in iOS, from Siri to on-device photo recognition. Expect even more advanced AI features in future updates, making your iPhone even more capable and personalized.

    Read More

    Augmented Reality (AR)

    Apple is betting big on AR, and it’s likely that future versions of iOS will expand AR capabilities. Rumor has it that Apple’s working on AR glasses or a headset, which could bring AR to the forefront of the iOS experience.

    Read More

    Security and Privacy

    Apple isn’t going to slow down on privacy. As data security becomes more important, future iOS versions will likely introduce even stronger protections to keep your info safe.

    Read More

    iPhone Price Ranges Explained

    Budget Phones

    Starting around $429, like the iPhone SE (2024)

    Mid-Range Phones

    $699 to $799, including the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus.

    Flagship Phones

    $999 and above, such as the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max.

    Frequently Asked Questions About iPhones

    VIEW ALL USER GUIDES

    How long should an iPhone last?

    Apple supports its iPhones with software updates for about 5-6 years, which is great news if you’re planning to hold on to your phone for a while. Even after the updates stop, your iPhone can last several more years with good care, so you’re looking at a solid 4-5 years of use, minimum.

    Here’s All The iPhones That Are Now Discontinued

    What makes iOS different from other mobile operating systems?

    iOS stands out for its tight integration with Apple’s hardware and ecosystem.

    You get frequent updates, strong security features, and a seamless experience across your Apple devices.

    Plus, Apple’s focus on privacy and user data protection makes iOS one of the most secure mobile operating systems out there.

    The Best iPhones To Buy Right Now

    How do I choose between Android and iOS?

    Choosing between Android and iOS depends on your personal preferences and ecosystem. Android offers a more customizable experience with a wider range of devices at various price points, from brands like Samsung, Google, and OnePlus.

    It’s ideal for users who want flexibility, choice, and integration with Google services.

    iOS, exclusive to Apple’s iPhone, provides a seamless, user-friendly experience with tight integration across Apple’s ecosystem, including iCloud, Apple Watch, and AirPods.

    It’s best for those who value simplicity, security, and frequent software updates. Consider your device preferences, app needs, and how much you value customization versus ease of use.

    Here’s A Detailed Comparison of iOS and Android’s Pros & Cons

    How often does iOS release new versions, and how can I get the latest update?

    Apple rolls out a major iOS update every year, usually around September.

    To update your iPhone, just head to Settings > General > Software Update. Apple makes it easy to stay up to date since all compatible devices get the update at the same time, so you won’t be left behind.

    Here’s How Long Apple Supports Its iPhone Models

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